Kyiv, Ukraine – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday offered his condolences following the death of Patriarch Filaret, a pivotal figure in the establishment of an independent Ukrainian Orthodox Church, at the age of 97. The passing of the Honorary Patriarch of Kyiv and All Rus-Ukraine marks a significant loss for the nation, particularly as Ukraine continues to navigate complex geopolitical and religious landscapes.
“This is a great loss for Ukrainians,” Zelensky stated, according to reports from the President’s office. “He was a strong personality and one of the most steadfast defenders of the Ukrainian Church, independence, and statehood.” Zelensky emphasized the enduring importance of Filaret’s contributions to building a church free from external influence, a goal that resonated deeply with Ukrainian national identity.
Born Mykhailo Antonovych Denysenko, Filaret dedicated decades to advocating for a Ukrainian Orthodox Church separate from the Moscow Patriarchate. His efforts culminated in the establishment of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church – Kiev Patriarchate in 1995, which he led for many years. This move was a direct challenge to the historical dominance of the Russian Orthodox Church in Ukraine, a point of contention that mirrored broader political tensions between the two countries.
The path to Ukrainian Orthodox autonomy wasn’t without its complexities. In 2018, the Kiev Patriarchate was initially integrated into the newly recognized Orthodox Church of Ukraine. Still, Filaret ultimately viewed this unification as incomplete, as it fell under the authority of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople in Turkey. This led him to leave the new church with his followers, re-establishing the Kiev Patriarchate as a distinct entity – now considered the country’s fourth-largest church.
The New York Times noted Filaret’s defiance of Russia throughout his career, highlighting his role as a symbol of Ukrainian spiritual independence. His unwavering commitment to a self-governing church resonated with a Ukrainian population increasingly seeking to assert its sovereignty in all aspects of life.
President Zelensky’s expression of grief underscores the significance of Filaret’s legacy. The President acknowledged that without Filaret’s “perseverance and courage,” the history of Ukrainian autonomy, spiritual independence, and the building of a strong state would be unimaginable. This sentiment reflects a broader national recognition of Filaret’s role in shaping modern Ukraine.
The funeral service for Patriarch Filaret was held at St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Cathedral in Kyiv, attended by President Zelensky and his wife, Olena. The service continued until March 22, allowing Ukrainians to pay their respects to a leader who profoundly impacted the nation’s religious and political trajectory. Filaret had previously instructed that his funeral be conducted by priests of the Kiev Patriarchate, a final assertion of his commitment to the church he championed.
The passing of Patriarch Filaret arrives at a particularly sensitive time for Ukraine, as the country continues to defend its sovereignty against external aggression. His legacy as a defender of Ukrainian independence will undoubtedly serve as an inspiration during this challenging period. The Ukrainian people will continue to honor his contribution to building an independent church and a stronger nation.
The Orthodox Church of Ukraine has suffered a significant loss with the death of Patriarch Filaret. His decades-long struggle for an independent Ukrainian church leaves a lasting mark on the nation’s spiritual and political landscape. The impact of his work will be felt for generations to arrive.
What’s Next: The Orthodox Church of Ukraine will continue its work toward full autonomy and spiritual independence, building upon the foundation laid by Patriarch Filaret. Further developments regarding the leadership and future direction of the Kiev Patriarchate are expected in the coming weeks.
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